Financial Support for Veterans

Our Affordability Officer, Cath Stone, brings not only years of experience in supporting customers but also a personal understanding of military life. Cath joined the Women’s Royal Naval Service in November 1988, serving across the UK and overseas, including the United States, Belgium and Gibraltar.

She describes her time in the Royal Navy as one of the most rewarding periods of her life — full of memorable experiences and friendships that have lasted decades.

Because of her background, Cath has a strong insight into the unique challenges veterans and their families can face. She is also able to identify and access specialist funding, benefits and support specifically available to veterans, helping customers navigate what can often be a complex system. Her lived experience brings empathy, understanding and practical expertise to the tailored support we provide.

Cath has helped tenants, including veterans access an incredible £517,027.22 in financial support between April and December 2025. This includes help with benefits, grants, budgeting support, and other financial assistance. If you’re struggling with household costs or would like advice on what support you may be entitled to, we’re here to help. Get in touch with Cath on 07974 751 084 for confidential support.

If you’re a veteran or part of a Forces family, there is a strong network of organisations across Ayrshire and Dumfries & Galloway offering practical, emotional, and wellbeing support. Here’s a guide to what’s available locally.

Veterans First Point (Ayrshire & Arran)
Confidential support with housing, mental health, finances, employment and social groups, with drop‑ins in Irvine and Kilmarnock.

📞 Phone: 01294 310400
🌐 Website: https://www.veteransfirstpoint.org.uk

SSAFA Dumfries & Galloway
Practical, emotional and financial support for veterans and families, delivered by trained local caseworkers.

📞 Phone (Regional Office): 0141 488 8552
📧 Email: [email protected]

Veterans Garden Dumfries
A welcoming wellbeing space offering links to food support, mental health services, Poppy Scotland, Combat Stress and more.

🌐 Website: https://veteransgardendumfries.org/support-services/

NHS Scotland – Priority Care for Veterans
Veterans with service‑related health conditions are entitled to priority NHS treatment when clinically appropriate. Speak to your GP.

Veterans Assist Scotland
Access a coordinated network of veteran organisations, including Age Scotland and mental health support groups.

📞 Age Scotland Helpline: 0800 12 44 222
📧 Age Scotland Email: [email protected]
📧 Veterans project email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: https://www.veterans-assist.org

Veterans’ Gateway (National Helpline)
First point of contact for advice and referrals.
📞 0808 802 1212 (7 days a week)

Whether you’re looking for practical help, someone to talk to, or support adjusting to civilian life, these organisations are here to help. Please reach out—support is available when you need it.